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Authors

Chafin, Kristine N. RN, BA, MBA, CIC

Watts, Misty D. MSN, RN

Abstract

Legionella is an underreported disease challenge within the hospital setting. In order to combat Legionella during times of construction and renovation, infection preventionists must become construction experts. The infection preventionist must be able to plan for potential waterborne disease outbreaks and protect the hospital staff, patients and visitors from waterborne pathogens. Legionella's history, signs and symptoms, diagnostic testing and treatment will be discussed. The hospital's convening of a multidisciplinary Legionella task force to work cohesively to develop a waterborne pathogens plan will also be discussed. This article was written from the perspective of the infection preventionist and employee health nurse at the time of the Legionella outbreak at their hospital.